Daily Power #57

Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking. (1 Cor. 13:4–5)

Social media encourages us—it absolutely trains us—to become more narcissistic and full of ourselves. One recent study indicated that 80 percent of what a person posts on social media is directly related to that user. Makes sense. After all, think about what you often check first when you’re online. What people are saying about you. Are people “liking” my posts? Are people commenting on the things I’ve posted? What can I do to attract more of the kind of positive affirmation I enjoy?

Why do we do this? It’s emotional, sure, but it’s also scientific. Every time we see something about ourselves—especially if it’s positive—our brains release a tiny dose of a chemical called dopamine. That rush gives us a little (completely legal) buzz, a little “A-ha! I like this!” moment.

So when we participate in social media, both posting and casual surfing, it’s conditioning us—like little laboratory rats tapping a food bar—to become more and more self-centered over time. Social media causes us to care less about other people by transforming our bodies to become more self-centered (#ThatsMessedUp).

However, God reminds us that real love is not self-centered. His kind of love doesn’t need the buzz of self-adoration, whether online or in person. The essence of love is what Jesus did for us on the cross. This kind of love can motivate everything you do—if you keep your eyes on Christ and not on your home page.

Power Lift

Jesus, so much of my day revolves around me and my needs and wants. Today let me look beyond my online image and focus on others with your selfless love.